Luke Littler has insisted there is no problem between himself and Raymond van Barneveld after winning a first night of Premier League action on Thursday.
The 17-year-old rose to second in the standings with victories over Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen and Nathan Aspinall.
It was a monumental occasion for Littler, who will be hoping to qualify for the play-offs amid an impressive debut campaign so far.
After his triumph, Littler was asked about recent quotes that appeared to be from darts icon Van Barneveld.
The Dutchman was quoted as criticising Littler earlier this month.
Van Barneveld allegedly condemned the youngster for ignoring his text messages, with the 56-year-old also quoted as saying he was a 'bit done' with his teenage rival.
But Littler has now insisted there was never any issue and that Van Barneveld had messaged his manager, Martin Foulds, to clarify the situation.
“Disappointed? No – he messaged Martin and said, ‘Don’t listen to them, I didn’t say anything’. That’s it," he said.
Littler has previously spoken of his admiration for Van Barneveld and that he grew up idolising the darts legend.
And it appears the issue was nothing more than a storm in a teacup, with Littler eager to continue his brilliant form.
On Thursday night, the 17-year-old was grabbed by the arm by an overzealous supporter.
And Littler admitted he was 'hurt' following the altercation, though did reveal his hand 'was fine' as he secured victory.
“I don’t know who he was but he pulled my arm and it hurt a little bit," he added.
"That’s why I went straight on stage, I didn’t interact with my music.
"I heard everyone singing but I just needed to relax. But my hand is fine. It worked out well."
Next up for Littler is a crunch showdown with Van Gerwen in Manchester.
The Briton will have the backing of the home crowd in Manchester and is facing a Van Gerwen on a mission amid his slight dip in form.
And Littler has admitted he's excited about their showdown, saying: “I cannot wait for next week.
"I am sure Nath (who is from Stockport) cannot wait either.
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"I know I have got van Gerwen, so it’s all eyes on winning that first game.
“The past eight weeks the crowds have been unbelievable with me.
"This was my first time in Belfast and I cannot wait to come back next year.
"Every week is a new experience but Manchester is one of the biggest arenas in the Premier League so it should be good.”
Littler's victory in Belfast means he's second in the standings on 18 points, with Humphries four clear on 22.
Van Gerwen and Aspinall have 17 and 16 points respectively.
And Michael Smith, Rob Cross, Gerwyn Price and Peter Wright all currently find themselves outside of the top four, with their play-off hopes hanging in the balance.
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